Bosses behind a plan to convert a historic pub into an American-style smokehouse have responded to locals who oppose the proposal.
The team from Hickory’s Smokehouse – which has restaurants in Chester, West Kirby and Rhos-on-Sea in North Wales – plan to convert the Unicorn Inn on Adlington Road, Wilmslow, and extend it to create a new branch of the business.
It would serve food inspired by the American south cooked using smokers imported from Memphis, Tennessee and there would be TV screens showing sports.
But there has been opposition from locals who want to keep a traditional pub and protect the 300-year-old building.
They launched a petition on change.org, which has been signed by more than 80 people.
David Higton, from Wilmslow, said on the online petition: “We should keep traditional pubs not have trendy restaurants that will eventually lose their appeal.”
Joanne Waggitt, also from Wilmslow, said an American restaurant would not meet the needs of the community, adding: “Why remove yet another traditional, semi rural pub and replace it with an American concept – this is not America.”
Now bosses have responded to fears and met with residents at a meeting of Wilmslow Town Council’s planning committee, which was discussing a planning application for the proposal.
The company directors, who are all from Cheshire, say the heritage of the building will remain and there will still be a large area for drinkers.
Gary Carter, one of Hickory’s directors, said: “I’m from Wilmslow and still have family in the area so know how important it is that the pub remains a hub for the community.
“We want to maintain the integrity of the original building.”
The Unicorn Inn is run by Chef and Brewer, part of Spirit Group which would lease the building to Hickory’s.
A spokesperson for Spirit Pub Company said: “We are currently investigating a number of potential business opportunities for the Unicorn.
"As we are in the very early stages it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time.
“We would like to reassure all guests that, until further notice, it is business as usual at the pub.”
A decision on the planning application is due this week.
